AWABA's new landfill will last Lake Macquarie more than three years longer under the city's existing bin system, council staff say.
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Opening the upgrade on Wednesday, Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said the $30 million project would streamline waste and recycling drop-off in the area.
“The new community recycling centre is right at the entrance of the facility, meaning Lake Macquarie residents can now drop off their recyclables and problem household wastes, without having to go over the weighbridge into the site,” Cr Fraser said.
“And the waste transfer station opening later this year will provide a place for vehicles under two tonnes to drop off waste easily, safely and without visiting the tip face.”
New landfill cells holding a combined total of almost 38,500 truckloads of waste are expected to be in use by October.
Deputy council chief executive Tony Farrell said the cells would extend Awaba Waste Management Facility's lifespan significantly.
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He pointed to the city's bin system, which a majority of councillors backed against opposition earlier this week, as a factor in reducing landfill requirements.
“Looking at these enormous cells provides a very tangible indication of how much waste a city the size of Lake Macquarie produces,” Mr Farrell said.
“We’re expecting they will be full in 12 years’ time. It’s important to note that without our new three-bin system, with food waste going into the green bin each week, they would reach capacity in just eight-and-a-half years.
“Further expansion planned down the track, and ongoing diversion of waste, mean Awaba Waste Management Facility should serve Lake Macquarie for at least the next 30 years.”
The expansion includes a weighbridge, a wheel wash for heavy vehicles, and an administration building featuring reclaimed materials.
Expressions of interest have been sought to operate a tip shop adjoining the recycling centre.
“This is a great way to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and close the loop locally on recyclable items,” Mr Farrell said.
Last financial year almost 23,700 tonnes were reused or recycled at Awaba.
